Ontario Increasing Protections for Condo Owners

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Ontario Increasing Protections for Condo Owners

Province Proposing Changes to Support Stronger Condo Communities

Ontario is introducing new legislation to increase protections for condominium owners, improve how condo corporations are run, and ensure that condo boards are governed professionally.

The proposed Protecting Condominium Owners Act marks the first major overhaul of the province's condominium laws in more than 16 years. It is based on more than 2,200 consultation submissions from condo owners, developers, managers and industry experts during a public review of the Condominium Act.

If passed, the proposed legislation would establish:

Clearer, more comprehensive rules to prevent owners from being surprised by unexpected costs after buying a newly-built condo

A new Condominium Authority to provide quicker, lower-cost dispute resolution and help prevent common disputes

Improving consumer protections in the province's growing condo sector is part of the government's plan to build Ontario up. The four-part plan includes investing in people's talents and skills, making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history, creating a dynamic, innovative environment where business thrives, and building a secure retirement savings plan.

Quick Facts

1.3 million Ontarians live in condos – a number greater than the populations of Saskatchewan or Manitoba.

More than 50 per cent of new homes being built in Ontario are condos.

There are currently 700,000 condo units in Ontario, up from 270,000 units in 2001. Currently, 51,000 units are under construction.

The government received about 200 recommendations for updating the Condominium Act through its public consultation process.

Additional Resources

Quotes

“In recent years, Ontario has seen huge growth in condo development, and it has become increasingly obvious that our current Condominium Act is not providing enough protection to those living in condos. Thousands of condo owners, developers, managers and experts volunteered their time and experience to debate and develop recommendations to reform our condominium legislation. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of those who participated, we will introduce legislation that, if passed, will significantly increase protections for Ontario’s condo owners and set a solid foundation for stronger and healthier condo communities across the province.”

David Orazietti

Minister of Government and Consumer Services

“This new legislation is a tremendous step towards protecting and overseeing the rights of condo owners in Ontario. It would be a great source of security to owners, would give them a place to turn to when their rights are violated, and it would also provide them with easier access to information. By mandating licensing and training for condo managers, the government is putting the emphasis on protecting owners. We have to applaud these proposed reforms to the laws governing Ontario's condominium communities—it is a ‘great insurance policy’ for all owners, now and in the future.”